India Approves ₹2.38 Trillion Defence Proposals for Military Upgrades

In a significant move to bolster India's military capabilities, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved procurement proposals valued at ₹2.38 lakh crore (approximately USD 25 billion). This decision was made during a meeting chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday. The council granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for a diverse array of acquisitions aimed at enhancing the operational capacity of the Indian Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard.

Rajnath Singh took to the social media platform X to announce the outcomes of the DAC meeting, stating that the decisions will considerably improve India's defence preparedness. He noted that the approvals and contracts for the current financial year have reached unprecedented levels. In his post, he said, "Chaired the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) meeting today in which Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) was accorded to various proposals worth an estimated cost of about ₹2.38 lakh crore. The decisions taken in the DAC will help in further strengthening India’s defence preparedness."

For the Indian Army, the DAC approved several key systems designed to improve operational readiness and effectiveness on the battlefield. Key approvals include the Air Defence Tracked System, which is intended to provide real-time air defence control and reporting, as well as High Capacity Radio Relay systems for secure communications. Additionally, Armoured Piercing Tank Ammunition has been sanctioned to enhance anti-tank capabilities, along with the Dhanush Gun System, which aims to improve long-range artillery strike accuracy. The Runway Independent Aerial Surveillance System has also been incorporated to support intelligence and monitoring in diverse terrains.

The Indian Air Force is set to receive substantial upgrades through the approval of Medium Transport Aircraft, designed to replace the older AN-32 and IL-76 fleets to meet both strategic and tactical airlift needs. Among the significant approvals is the procurement of the Russian S-400 long-range surface-to-air missile system, which aims to counter advanced aerial threats targeting critical infrastructure.

Moreover, the DAC has sanctioned Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft to enhance offensive capabilities, including air operations coordination and stealth-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. Another pivotal decision involves the overhaul of Su-30 aviation engine components, which is anticipated to extend the operational service life of these aircraft, thereby ensuring sustained readiness.

In terms of maritime security, the DAC has approved the acquisition of Heavy Duty Air Cushion Vehicles for the Indian Coast Guard. These platforms will facilitate high-speed coastal patrolling, search and rescue operations, reconnaissance, and logistics support, thereby strengthening overall maritime security and rapid response capabilities.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commented on the DAC's achievements for the financial year 2025–26, revealing that the council has already granted AoN to 55 proposals worth ₹6.73 lakh crore. He expressed satisfaction that capital procurement contracts for 503 proposals valued at ₹2.28 lakh crore have been signed this fiscal, marking the highest annual total for such contracts. These latest approvals underscore the government's commitment to modernising the armed forces and enhancing both indigenous and strategic defence capabilities in response to evolving security challenges.